Animal Caretakers vs. Childcare Workers: Who Earns More?
Animal Caretakerss out-earn Childcare Workerss by $380 a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Animal Caretakerss land at $35,360 and Childcare Workerss at $34,980. The education gap is real: animal caretaker programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while childcare worker programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Animal Caretakerss is District of Columbia ($44,210); for Childcare Workerss it's District of Columbia ($47,340).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Animal Caretakers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Animal Caretakerss or Childcare Workerss?
Animal Caretakerss earn more nationally. The median is $35,360 for Animal Caretakerss versus $34,980 for Childcare Workerss, a difference of $380. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Animal Caretakers or Childcare Workers?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Animal Caretakers or Childcare Workers?
Animal Caretakers typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Childcare Workers requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Animal Caretakerss get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Animal Caretakerss at $44,210/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Animal Caretakers vs. Childcare Workers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Animal Caretakerss earn $44,210 vs. $47,340 for Childcare Workerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.